Australia awards support contract for frigate engines

CANBERRA, Australia, April 14 (UPI) -- Gas turbines on Royal Australian Navy frigates will receive in-service maintenance and logistics support from General Electric International Incorporated.

The contract awarded to GEII is worth more than $38 million and provides for program management and on-site field service support in addition to depot level maintenance, the Australian Department of Defense said.

Services by GEII are expected to last for up to 6 1/2 years, and includes access to a Global Supply Chain and knowledge transfer to 'up-skill' RAN personnel.

"Having one service provider will streamline the maintenance process for the gas turbines that power the frigates, increasing contractor responsibility and accountability," the Department of Defense said.

"The government is pleased that [the Department of] Defense continues to work closely with industry partners to provide the most cost-effective and efficient use of Commonwealth funding to sustain our maritime fleet."

General Electric International Inc. is a subsidiary of U.S. headquartered General Electric.

Australia has two classes of frigates: Anzac class and Adelaide class.